Looking for kid-friendly things to do in Milwaukee today, this weekend, or all year? Start here. We’ve organized our most-loved guides – indoor play, parks and beaches, museums and animals, seasonal fun, day trips, and more – so you can jump straight to what you need.
Pro tip: Bookmark this page—it’s updated every year so you always have the 100 Best Things To Do in Milwaukee with Kids at your fingertips.
Quick Picks: Things To Do in Milwaukee With Kids
Short on time? Start with these tried-and-true favorites local families come back to again and again.
Best indoor activity:
Betty Brinn Children’s Museum – A hands-on favorite for younger kids, especially ages 1–7, with imaginative play spaces and early learning exhibits.
Best outdoor activity:
Milwaukee County Zoo – Wide paths, animal habitats, a safari train, and seasonal events make this a go-to for families year-round.
Best free option for kids:
Milwaukee Art Museum – Kids 12 and under are always free, making this a great option for families with younger children, especially during open studio hours and family-friendly programming.
Best playground:
Northwestern Mutual Community Park – One of the best playgrounds in the region, with modern equipment, sensory-friendly features, and a central location at Summerfest.
Best for toddlers:
Little Village Play Café (Wauwatosa) – A cozy, toddler-focused indoor space with soft play, imaginative stations, and a calm, parent-friendly vibe.
Best science museum:
Discovery World – Hands-on science exhibits, a giant aquarium tunnel, and interactive labs that really shine for elementary-aged kids.
Best unique outing:
Afternoon Tea at The Pfister – A surprisingly kid-friendly fancy experience with tiny sandwiches, desserts, and a special-occasion feel.
Best restaurant for kids:
SafeHouse Milwaukee – A spy-themed restaurant packed with secret doors, puzzles, and playful surprises that older kids love.
Best for thrill-seekers:
Slick City Action Park – A high-energy indoor slide park with no water, making it a popular choice for big kids and tweens.
Best library:
Milwaukee Central Library – A standout downtown library with an expansive children’s area, climbable lighthouse, frequent family programming, and plenty of space to explore beyond the stacks.
Best rainy-day option:
Milwaukee Public Museum – Dinosaurs, live butterflies, and the iconic Streets of Old Milwaukee make this an easy win when the weather turns gray.
Best Instagram-worthy stop for families:
Mama Rosa Troll (Wauwatosa) – A whimsical public art installation that’s fun, unexpected, and perfect for a quick family photo stop.
Looking for free things to do?
See our guide to free things to do in Milwaukee with kids year-round.
Plan Family Fun in Milwaukee
Today & This Weekend
Looking for something to do right now?
- Milwaukee Events Calendar – Family-friendly events happening today, this week, and beyond
- Weekend Guide for Families – Our top picks for kid-friendly fun each weekend
- Interactive Map of Family Fun in Milwaukee – Find playgrounds, museums, and activities near you
By Season
Planning ahead? Explore family fun by time of year:
- Winter in Milwaukee with Kids
- Spring in Milwaukee with Kids
- Summer in Milwaukee with Kids
- Fall in Milwaukee with Kids
By Age
Every stage comes with different needs. Start here:
- Things to Do with Toddlers in Milwaukee
- Elementary-Age Kids – Explore Trampoline & Adventure Parks, Pottery Painting & Art Studios, and Best Milwaukee Arcades
- Things to Do with Teens in Milwaukee
Seasonal Family Activities in Milwaukee
Milwaukee has something fun for families in every season. Here are a few seasonal highlights, with links to full guides for planning ahead.
Winter in Milwaukee with Kids
Top Winter Picks
- Ice Skating Rinks in Milwaukee
- Best Sledding Hills Around Milwaukee
- Snow Tubing Hills Near Milwaukee
👉 See the full Winter in Milwaukee with Kids guide
Spring in Milwaukee with Kids
As the city thaws out, spring brings colorful festivals and family traditions. Celebrate tulip blooms, 414 Day, and plenty of egg hunts across the region.
Top Spring Picks
👉 See the full Spring in Milwaukee with Kids guide
Summer in Milwaukee with Kids
When the days stretch long and the sun finally warms Lake Michigan, Milwaukee comes alive with family fun. Summer means splash pads, fresh-picked strawberries, lively festivals, and evenings spent under the stars.
Top Summer Picks
👉 See the full Summer in Milwaukee with Kids guide
Fall in Milwaukee With Kids
Crisp air and changing leaves make fall a magical time. Families can pick apples, wander through corn mazes, and find the perfect pumpkin patch for a day of fun.
Top Fall Picks
👉 See the full Fall in Milwaukee with Kids guide
Holiday Cheer
The holidays in Milwaukee are pure magic, from twinkling light displays and festive parades to cozy sleigh rides and Santa’s bright red mailboxes. Families can celebrate all season long with traditions old and new.
Top Holiday Picks
👉 See the full Holidays in Milwaukee with Kids guide
Kid-Friendly Museums in Milwaukee
Milwaukee’s kid-friendly museums are packed with hands-on exhibits—perfect for rainy-day activities and curious learners. From toddler play spaces to STEM labs for tweens and teens, these spots make it easy to learn by doing.
A few local favorites include:
- Betty Brinn Children’s Museum, where kids can explore the newly updated Palermo’s Pizza Factory and Be-A-Maker space.
- Discovery World, with STEM exhibits, a touch tank, and a giant aquarium tunnel.
- Milwaukee Public Museum, featuring the beloved Streets of Old Milwaukee and live butterflies.
Plan your visit:
- See our full roundup Milwaukee Museums Your Kids Will Love
- Save money with Milwaukee’s Free Museum Days
- Plus: 5 Quirky Museums in Milwaukee you have to see to believe!
Best Playgrounds Around Milwaukee
Milwaukee is filled with incredible playgrounds for kids of all ages, from inclusive spaces with sensory features to nature-inspired adventure zones.
Some local favorites include:
- Northwestern Mutual Community Park in downtown Milwaukee, with inclusive play areas and a sensory room.
- Kayla’s Playground in Franklin, a fully accessible space built for all abilities.
- Fort Cushing Playground in Delafield, a castle-themed structure that sparks the imagination.
For even more great picks, head to our full roundup of the Best Playgrounds in Milwaukee. It includes local favorites across the city and suburbs, plus insider tips for your visit.
Indoor Playgrounds & Play Cafés in Milwaukee
Whether it’s a rainy day or a frigid winter afternoon, Milwaukee has plenty of indoor spaces where kids can burn off energy and parents can relax.
A few standouts include:
- Little Village Play Café in Wauwatosa, a cozy space perfect for toddlers with great coffee for grown-ups.
- Slick City Action Park, an indoor, slide-focused adventure park with no water and plenty of thrills for older kids and tweens.
- Bug & Goose Play Café, offering a welcoming atmosphere for young kids and parents alike.
Explore our full list of the best indoor playgrounds and play cafés in Milwaukee for more spots to play all year long.
Things to Do in Milwaukee with Older Kids
Looking for activities that go beyond playgrounds and toddler play? These Milwaukee-area picks are especially popular with older kids and tweens who want more challenge, independence, and excitement.
- Trampoline & Adventure Parks – High-energy trampoline parks around Milwaukee.
- Pottery Painting & Art Studios – Creative studios where kids can paint ceramics or work on guided art projects.
- Water Parks Near Milwaukee – Family-friendly water park for year-round splashing fun.
- Best Milwaukee Arcades – Top arcade spots for games, prizes, and family entertainment.
- Roller Skating & Skate Parks – Guide to roller rinks and skate parks around Milwaukee.
- Ninja Warrior Gyms – Obstacle-course gyms inspired by Ninja Warrior challenges.
Animal Attractions in Milwaukee for Kids
Milwaukee offers families plenty of ways to get up close with animals, from iconic zoos to interactive aquariums. Here are some must-visit spots for animal lovers:
- Milwaukee County Zoo – 2,000 animals across 200 acres, with a Family Farm & Safari Train.
- Reiman Aquarium at Discovery World – Dive into Wisconsin’s largest aquarium.
- Shalom Wildlife Zoo – “Wisconsin’s Wildest Zoo,” lets you roam 100+ acres.
- Bear Den Petting Zoo – Hold a baby kangaroo and meet other friendly animals.
- Petting Zoos Near Milwaukee – Get up close with friendly animals at local petting farms.
- 6 Splash-tastic Aquariums in Milwaukee – Explore the top aquariums Milwaukee has to offer.
- Concord General Store & Petting Zoo – A fun pit stop with a free petting zoo and local treats.
Outdoor Things to Do in Milwaukee with Kids
Best for: easy hikes, nature centers, gardens, and stroller-friendly outdoor exploring.
- Lynden Sculpture Garden – Art sculptures across 40 acres of garden.
- Schlitz Audubon Nature Center – Observation tower, pond exploration, and easy hiking.
- Retzer Nature Center’s Discovery Trail – Discovery Trail with sensory play and STEM activities.
- Seven Bridges Trail in Grant Park – Scenic, magical trail through woods down to Lake Michigan.
- Mequon Nature Preserve – Year-round oasis with a natural playground and education center.
- Wehr Nature Center – Waterfall hike and natural playground.
- Lapham Peak – Hike this popular trail with tower views of Waukesha’s scenic landscapes.
- Havenwoods State Forest – A hidden gem with family-friendly hiking and exploration.
- Urban Ecology Center at Riverside Park – Urban nature center with plenty of fun for kids.
- Alice’s Garden Urban Farm – Community garden that offers labyrinth walks and programming.
- Lakeshore State Park – Kid-friendly hike in downtown Milwaukee with lake views.
- Boerner Botanical Gardens Guide – A quick overview of the gardens, perfect for family visits.
- Margie’s Garden at Boerner Botanical Gardens – Enchanted Village and Flower Shop Playhouse.
- The Conservancy for Healing & Heritage – Peaceful trails with a stunning landscape in Franklin.
- Hawthorn Glen Nature Center – Family-friendly nature center with hiking trails.
Want more ideas?
- 15 Beautiful Wisconsin State Parks Near Milwaukee – Must-see state parks for family outings.
- Enchanting Labyrinths in Milwaukee – Three unique labyrinths perfect for a family day out.
- 10 Best Gardens & Flower Farms – Scenic gardens and flower farms ideal for family visits.
- 10 Inspiring Nature Centers Around Milwaukee – Top nature centers for family visits.
- Stroller-Friendly Hikes Around Milwaukee – Seven trails perfect for younger kids.
- 15 Easy Hikes for Kids Around Milwaukee – Trails that are manageable and fun for younger kids.
Milwaukee Sports Games for Families
(Image: Milwaukee Bucks Game)
- Milwaukee Bucks Game at Fiserv Forum – High-energy entertainment from World Champions.
- Milwaukee Milkmen Game – Free parking and family-friendly promotions.
- Milwaukee Brewers Game – Player autographs, play areas, and kids run the bases.
- Milwaukee Wave Game – Pro soccer with fun for all ages.
- Milwaukee Admirals Game – Hockey with kids’ zones and post-game skating.
- Lakeshore Chinooks Game – Baseball games along Lake Michigan.
- Wisconsin Badger Game – Pre-game family festivities, what to wear, and more.
- Green Bay’s Titletown District – Lively football district with playgrounds and ice skating.
- March Madness with Your Kids – Family-friendly venues to catch the games with your kids.
Unique Family Activities in Milwaukee
- The Hop Streetcar – Hop on and off at 10 stops around downtown Milwaukee.
- Manfred Olson Planetarium – Interactive night sky shows for all ages.
- Avalon Atmospheric Theatre – Movie theater under a starry night sky.
- Pabst Mansion – Family tours with hidden details in historic rooms.
- Milwaukee Fire Museum – Vintage trucks and fire department memorabilia.
- National Bobblehead Hall of Fame & Museum – Scavenger hunts and souvenirs.
- Model Railroad Club of Milwaukee – Free entry to a historical model train exhibit.
Water Activities in Milwaukee for Families
- Springs Water Park – Raft slides, lazy river, and whirlpools.
- Public Beaches – Explore nine Lake Michigan beaches.
- Boat Tours – Milwaukee River and Lake Michigan skyline views.
Arts & Culture Activities in Milwaukee for Kids
- Milwaukee Art Museum – Interactive art-making studio for kids.
- Oriental Theatre – Historic theater with unique architecture.
- Marcus Performing Arts Center – Kid-friendly productions year-round.
- Best Libraries – Explore the top libraries for kids around Milwaukee
- Black Cat Alley – Outdoor alley filled with vibrant murals.
- Milwaukee Mural Tour – Explore murals across the city.
- Bradley Symphony Center – Free Saturday concerts for families.
Kid-Friendly Restaurants and Treats in Milwaukee
Milwaukee is filled with family-friendly dining options that both kids and parents will love, from playful pizza spots to cozy coffee shops and everything in between. Whether you’re planning a family brunch or looking for restaurants with kid-friendly menus, our guides have you covered.
Browse the 25 Kid-Friendly Restaurants in Milwaukee for the best family-friendly dining around the city!
Need more ideas?
- 25 Best Brunch Spots in Milwaukee – Discover top brunch destinations around the city.
- Custard MKE – Discover daily flavors of classic Milwaukee-style custard.
- Local Donut Shops – Must-visit donut spots that kids (and adults) will love.
- Best Tacos in Milwaukee – Reader favorites for the best tacos around town.
Inclusive & Accessible Family Activities in Milwaukee
Looking for inclusive family fun? Milwaukee offers events and attractions designed with all kids in mind, including sensory-friendly, wheelchair-accessible, and adaptive programs.
Day Trips from Milwaukee
Ready for a family adventure? Here are some popular types of day trips from Milwaukee, with links to full guides to help you plan.
Chicago Day Trips for Families
Big-city adventures within easy reach.
👉 See our full guide to family-friendly Chicago trips from Milwaukee
Wisconsin Day Trips with Kids
Easy getaways across the state.
- 100 Best Day Trips from Milwaukee
- Best Wisconsin State Parks Near Milwaukee
- Living History & Museums in Wisconsin
- Unique Wisconsin Attractions for Families
Water Parks & Overnight-Style Day Trips
Worth the drive for all-day fun.
What did we miss? Email us at hello@mkewithkids.com.
Calie Herbst, Editor-in-Chief of Milwaukee With Kids, has spent over a decade combining her experiences as a parent of three to create a hub for Milwaukee’s family adventures.
Her decade-long teaching career in Milwaukee Public Schools and academic background, including a Master’s in Teaching from Marquette University and dual B.A.s in Sociology and Spanish from the University of Wisconsin – Madison, fuel her passion for inclusive and engaging family content.
Calie is also a recognized voice in local media, contributing to WISN Channel 12 News, WTMJ Wisconsin Morning News, Fox 6’s Real Milwaukee, and B93.3.
Discover more about Calie’s journey and editorial approach on her About Page and Editorial Policy Page.
